Ivy thought being a reporter-in-training at the Independent Gazette would be her dream summer job. Little did she know, interviewing Eric, a landscaper with a heart of gold, would derail her plans. It turns out Ivy’s boss, Lauren, has been eying his chiseled physique for quite some time.

But at twenty-four, Eric already has a tragic past, one that he is still reeling from. Even though his ordeal turned him into some sort of local celebrity, it’s been a while since he’s shared his bed with anyone. When he comes to Ivy’s rescue out of the blue, it’s not long before the two of them start seeing each other behind Lauren’s back. When they get caught, Ivy’s journey toward a college degree is jeopardized and her relationship with Eric is severely put to the test.

Career versus love? In the end, a shocking turn of events provides Ivy with a revelation she never saw coming.

To celebrate the official release of Take Me Now, author Faith Sullivan is stopping by today to share an excerpt with you.

This is a New-Adult Contemporary Romance, and I hope you’ll enjoy reading the excerpt.

And don’t forget to enter the giveaway at the bottom of the post. The winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card!

Excerpt from Take Me Now

By Faith Sullivan

If only I were open to the possibility of romance, but I’m not. There’s no way I can be. There are circumstances that can’t be wished away or ignored. My heart’s not ready—not yet. And while this absolutely gorgeous girl has wandered into my life, I’m not going to act on it. It’s too soon.

I stride into my shop, gently placing her on the counter. Her feet are bleeding and she looks like she could use a drink of water. She’s covered in dust from the road but she looks adorable sitting there. I don’t know what it’s like to be in a scenario like this with a girl. I’m used to things being straightforward and laid out before me. This looks like something I could get easily lost in if I’m not careful.

We still haven’t said a word to each other, and I hate to break the silence but it can’t be avoided. “Rest here a minute. I’ll be right back.”

Her hand lingers on my upper arm, her thumb massaging by bicep. I exhale heavily, trying desperately to clear my head. Her touch is stirring things inside me I haven’t experienced in quite some time. Emotions I never thought I’d feel again. “Thank you,” she whispers, her eyes never leaving mine.

“No problem,” I try to say as casually as possible. She’s looking at me like I’m her knight in shining armor and I don’t want her to get the wrong idea. I can’t go down that road again. I just can’t. My soul still isn’t fully healed from the last time. I can’t trust myself in these kinds of situations. I need to back away as gracefully as I can.

I can’t wait to read this book! I have a feeling it’s going to be really steamy because Faith does Swoon-Thursday’s with me, and always shares the best Swoons!!!Lindy@ A Bookish Escape recently posted..Book Review: High Risk Love by Shannon Mayer